Description
This Swirled Garlic Herb Bread is a flavorful homemade loaf infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly soft and aromatic, it features a beautiful swirl pattern that adds a delightful twist to your traditional bread. Ideal for serving alongside meals or as a savory snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Herb Butter Filling
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make dough: Add olive oil, salt, and all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare garlic herb butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh basil, dried oregano, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Shape dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12 by 9-inch rectangle.
- Spread filling and roll: Evenly spread the garlic herb butter mixture over the dough. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Create swirl: Slice the roll lengthwise down the middle to expose the filling. Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up to showcase the swirl pattern.
- Second rise: Place the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for 30 minutes until slightly puffed.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30 to 35 minutes or until it turns golden brown on top.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if necessary.
- For a richer taste, add extra Parmesan cheese or brush the top of the bread with melted butter after baking.
- Store any leftovers wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for extended storage.
